Mexico Guide » Destinations in Mexico » Yucatan State

Yucatan State

The state of Yucatan actually covers only a portion of the entire Yucatan Peninsula in southern Mexico. It is bordered to the south-southwest by the state of Campeche, to the west and north by the Gulf of Mexico, and to the east-southeast by the state of Quintana Roo.

Principal cities are the capital, Merida, known as the "White city"; the port of Progreso on the coast, and Valladolid in the interior. Yucatan is a wonderful destination for both the exploration of Mexican history and eco-tourism activities.

Major mayan archaeological sites exist at Chichen Itza, near Valladolid, and at Uxmal and Mayapan. There are several smaller sites along the Puuc Route that include Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, LabnÃ¡, and the LoltÃºn Caves.

Eco-tourism and birdwatching opportunities abound at the nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries of Celestun, about an hour out of Merida, and at Rio Lagartos, on the coast north of the city of Valladolid. Both areas are the nesting place of massive flocks of pink flamingos and many other waterbirds including egrets, herons and cormorants.

The state of Yucatan and the Yucatan peninsula in general hold a special treat for the culinary adventurer. Yucatecan food is unique and delicious. Among the typical regional specialties offered in this area of Mexico figure Panuchos, which are crisp-fried tortillas topped with black beans, shredded chicken or turkey, pickled onions, chopped lettuce and sliced avocado; Cochinita Pibil, which is a succulent dish of pork marinated in achiote (annatto seed paste) and sour orange juice with other seasonings, wrapped in banana leaves and slow roasted to perfection; and Huevos MotuleÃ±os, a hearty breakfast dish consisting of layers of tortilla and black beans, sliced or chopped ham, fried eggs and savory tomato sauce topped with tender cooked peas.